Discover all the magnificient sites at Blenheim Palace during your visit:
The Palace
Built in the early 1700s, Blenheim Palace is one of the finest country houses you’ll ever see, with architecture reminiscent of Versailles. It’s one of England’s largest houses, and is still lived in today by the Duke of Marlborough. You can easily spend an entire day exploring, or see the main highlights in about four hours if you’re on a tighter schedule.
The State Rooms
The three lavish State Rooms at the Palace are home to one of the finest collections of tapestries, paintings and furniture in the whole of Europe. Marvel at the ornate architectural details and bathe in the calming atmosphere of the rooms. A 40-minute guided tour of the State Rooms (in English) is included in your ticket price.
The Long Library
The magnificent Long Library at Blenheim Palace was designed by Christopher Wren, famous for his masterpiece, St Paul’s Cathedral. At 180ft long, it’s one of the longest rooms in any country house in England! The room is also home to Europe’s largest privately-owned organ, and there are incredible views out to the lake and gardens through the delicate sun-drenched windows.
Winston Churchill’s Birthplace and Exhibition
Visit the room where Sir Winston Churchill was born in 1874, and hear about the story of his birth, childhood and adult life in the permanent exhibition, offering detailed insights into the man who led Britain through war.
2,000 acres of parkland and gardens
After exploring the Palace, take a relaxing stroll through the spectacular surrounding gardens and parkland – one of the most serene spaces you’ll find anywhere in Britain. Designed by “England’s greatest gardener,” ‘Capability’ Brown, there are several formal gardens to discover including the beautiful Water Terraces, which draw similarities from the famous Parterre d’Eau at the Palace of Versailles.
In the nearby Aboretum is the Temple of Diana, where Sir Winston Churchill proposed to his wife, Clementine Hozier, in 1908. You can also visit the ornate Italian Garden, with precise box hedges which are trimmed using spirit levels; the tranquil and secluded Secret Garden; and the spectacular Rose Garden, planted with symmetrical beds of colourful roses.
The Pleasure Gardens
The perfect area for kids to enjoy, the Pleasure Gardens can be reached by a ride on a mini train (small fee applies, approx. 50p per person) and include a butterfly house, a giant hedge maze, giant board games, lawns and an adventure play area. There’s also a family-friendly deli where you can grab something to eat.